DanielKovats

Daniel Kovats, peacefully entered into his eternal rest Thursday, November 29, 2012, after a lengthy illness. Born on September 29, 1931, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Eva B. (Fales) Kovats. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 59 years, Charlotte (Johnson) Kovats; children and grandchildren, Sue E. Kovats-Bell (Laura Bell, David Bell), William D. (Susan) Kovats (Robert, Sarah, Rebecca), David M. Kovats, Carol A. (Kovats) Amor (Mary Schulte). Additional surviving family includes a cousin Mary E. (Fales) Carlson. Dan was actively involved with music throughout his life. His interest in music began at an early age with violin lessons from his father, a charter member of the Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra. He was a graduate of the University of Michigan School of Music and as a student, participated in the marching band, university symphony and various other musical activities. He began his professional multifaceted musical career as an educator in the Grand Rapids Public School System including GRJC, and retired in 1992 from GVSU. During his career, Dan directed The Grand Rapids Youth Symphony Orchestra, played viola in The Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra, was a clinician and adjudicator for MSBOA, and arranged and composed a wide variety of musical pieces. While retired, he became an active member of the viola section of the Holland Symphony Orchestra. One of Dan's great pleasures was his work with students at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp which included international tours with its bands and orchestras. In addition, he enjoyed big band and jazz music, and played his beloved trumpet for many West Michigan area bands in all types of venues. Per Dan's wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation with the family will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm, Friday, December 14, 2012, at Cook Funeral Home (West Building), 4235 Prairie St, Grandville, MI. A "Celebration of Life" Service will be held at 1:30 pm Saturday, December 15, with visitation one hour prior at Georgetown United Methodist Church, 2766 Baldwin St., Jenison, MI. Pastor Bill Bills will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Grand Rapids Youth Symphony Orchestra, Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp Scholarship Fund, or ACCESS of West Michigan. In appreciation, the family wishes to thank everyone, including the staff members of Oak Crest Cherrywood and Spectrum Hospice, for all the prayers, cards, compassionate care, physical and moral support given throughout Dan's long illness. Memories and messages are welcome in Dan's guest book online at www.cookfamilycares.com.